01 February 2012

As part of my ongoing organizational efforts, I've been sorting through boxes and bookcases and suitcases {no joke} FULL of old magazines. I tear out the articles/images I want to save and file, and the rest goes in the recycling bin.

I came across a House Beautiful article from May 2009 that I just had to share with y'all. The article is entitled "Every House Needs" and they interviewed people who they consider experts to share what their must-haves are for each room of your house.

I found these lists to be extremely helpful; in fact, it was a guideline of sorts for me when I was registering for our wedding gifts. But these lists are also helpful for recent college grads setting up their first apartment, newylweds setting up their home, or for anyone who's looking to fill in the gaps in their home.

I'm going to start sharing one or two of the lists each week {there are 16 in all!}. This week's is Ina Garten's kitchen essentials:

1. KitchenAid stand mixer. We registered for one but didn't get it. Luckily, we got enough gift cards to purchase one. I just haven't pulled the trigger yet.

3. KitchenAid 12-cup food processor. Ina and I differ here. She prefers Cuisinart. I did a lot of food processor research when we registered, and in almost every head-to-head test, the KitchenAid won. And they're made in the USA. Cuisinarts used to be, but are now outsourced to China.

4. LeCreuset dutch oven. I have an unhealthy love affair with my dutch oven. It stays on my stove from October-March.